Located in Melbourne, 550 Spencer is the first building in Australia to generate its own electricity through a solar panel façade. Drawing from advanced European glazing tools that integrate photovoltaic cells into sleek, transparent facades, Kennon worked with local suppliers and international experts to bring this sustainability vision to life.
The building design reflects Kennon’s signature style – clean lines, minimalist elements, and an emphasis on spatial dynamics. It is multi-purpose in nature, accommodating both commercial and residential spaces.
The facade is designed to balance energy generation with comfort, featuring solid solar panels on the north side to capture sunlight. In contrast, clear glass panels are used on the southern pleated façade to reduce heat gain, ensuring energy efficiency without compromising indoor comfort.
With 1,182 solar panels covering the façade, the building generates 142 kW of electricity – 50 times the capacity of a typical residential rooftop system. The energy generated is used immediately, eliminating the need for battery storage and ensuring zero carbon emissions. The building operates without gas, providing a sustainable, fossil-free energy model.
Beyond energy efficiency, the building prioritizes occupant well-being by ensuring simple natural light, views of the surrounding environment, and natural ventilation throughout every level. With 1182 solar panels mounted to the façade, space is created for a rooftop garden, giving occupants a green space to enjoy.
The building’s design is expected to reduce CO2 emissions by 70 tonnes annually, working toward carbon neutrality.
